SPONSORED POST: The following is a letter from Elaine Bannigan of Pinnacle Residential Properties.

Dear Friends and Neighbors:

Right before COVID-19 struck, demand for Wellesley real estate was intense and the supply shortage was acute – we had just a two-month supply on the market. By the time real estate firms shut their doors to the virus, many sellers had withdrawn their homes from the market. Subsequently, agents have turned to virtual tours to be able to continue to “show” properties that remained on the market, but very few people are really willing to buy a costly primary residence based on a virtual tour.

A professional home inspector uses proper protection to do his job.

You may have heard that many states, Massachusetts included, have deemed real estate sales an essential business. The reasons for this decision have to do with the long-term economic impact of the housing market. The real estate industry supports 17% of the national economy and every two home sales generate one job. It is both a tangible asset and a fundamental need. A strong housing market can lead to a quicker recovery in the aftermath.

While physical showings are permitted to continue under order issued by Governor Baker, all parties must follow strict social distancing guidelines. Contact should be minimized, parties should stay six feet away from each other, hands should be washed frequently, and surfaces should be wiped down and sanitized. Some agents are just opening doors and waiting in their cars for those willing buyers and sellers who still want to proceed. Many of us are waiting until it is safe. Demand is not going away – it’s only becoming pent-up.

Pinnacle, Wellesley — The daughter of a Pinnacle client made the above sign of the times.

Pinnacle has so many other beautiful homes waiting in the wings that were scheduled for market introduction this month. They’ll become available and buyers will be out in force when we get back to something resembling normalcy.

We also have heard so many people state how committed they are to support the local businesses. Pinnacle, as a locally-owned business, is eternally grateful for this loyalty and the understanding of how important it is.

Last, from all of us, we miss the handshakes and hugs most of all.

Please be safe and healthy!